Perfect Germany Progress

Germany boss Joachim Low says there’s room for improvement in his side after they reached the quarter-finals with three wins from three games after a 2-1 victory over Denmark in the 2012 European Championships.

Die Mannschaft progressed in top spot in Group B and will next face Greece after they brushed aside the Danish, who put up a fight but now head home.

Lukas Podolski swept the Germans ahead on 19 minutes in his 100th appearance for his country, but Denmark hit back five minutes later from a set-piece when Michael Krohn-Dehli converted from close range after Nicklas Bendtner’s centering header.

Low told reporters after the game, it could’ve been more and said he believed there was room for improvement in his all-conquering side who are now one of the firm favourites for the title.

“Today was the first decisive game of the tournament, but we did the job and qualified with nine points – a great performance, even if there’s still room for improvement,” Low said.

“In midfield and defence, we maybe allowed too much space; we could have closed them down much earlier to avoid allowing Denmark to take the pace out of the game. Greece will be the same, so we need to tighten up.”

Low added: “The match was very difficult, as expected. In the first half, we had an opportunity to open up a good lead; we missed three or four chances to make it 2-0 or 3-0.

“Then, from a standard set piece, Denmark levelled. After that, it became harder.

“In the second half, we controlled the match, looked after the ball and played with real maturity.

“Three or four years ago, we wouldn’t have won this. But on 60, 70 minutes, all those technical players we have who can take control of the ball stepped up.”